LitPick Review
Jacob has always felt like an outsider in his own life. His father is miles away in Chicago, his sister is off at college, his own mother seems distant and preoccupied, and at school he may as well be wall decor. But when a simple joke in class earns him an invitation to a party, everything changes. Suddenly, Jacob is part of a group known as the Pack. He is supposed to be the funny one, the one who finally fits in. But as he revels in his newfound happiness, he cannot shake the feeling that it is just a facade. Is his sense of belonging real, or is it just a tragic illusion?
Opinion:
This book shouts: you are not alone! Whether intentional or not, Possible Happiness is a sad commentary on the decline of the functional family. Author David Ebenbach’s descriptive narrative places the reader in 1980s Philadelphia. With themes of depression, underage drinking, income inequality, religion, racism, sexuality, and alcoholism, Ebenbach tackles many darker topics. He takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions by allowing readers to witness Jacob’s self-image as it is unveiled. Jacob’s internal struggles and desire for acceptance will resonate with readers. But the realization that “outside Jacob’s all laughs, but inside he’s a total train wreck” dampens the author’s effort at humor in this story. Readers captivated by stories of self-discovery will want to check out Possible Happiness.
